STAFF at West Midland Safari Park are preparing to launch their new Safari Academy, which will open this summer.

The sustainably-built education centre will feature five classrooms and has been designed specifically for visiting schools.

Each classroom will be equipped with everything it needs to provide interactive education for groups of all ages - from pre-schools and nurseries, to university groups and adult learners.

Groups can take part in a variety of activities to enhance their in-school learning, including curriculum linked guided tours, hands-on discovery sessions and workshops. These will include close encounters with some of the Park's smaller, friendly animals and a wide range of artefacts, all relevant to the chosen topic.

Caroline Richards, head of learning, said: "We have built a fantastic team of educators over the years, who are dedicated to providing wildlife education to visiting schools and colleges, as well as delivering accredited animal qualifications.

"I am thrilled that we are able to expand our support for wildlife education in the West Midlands with our brand new, purpose built Safari Academy."

She added: "This new state-of-the-art eco-building will allow us to grow our educational services to meet the needs of the local community and inspire even more young conservationists of the future.

"Not only will we be able to offer hands-on classes and courses, we will also be offering additional holiday clubs, evening talks and conservation events.

"We look forward forward to welcoming guests to the Safari Academy throughout the summer months."

The Safari Academy will also be home to accredited level two and three animal care courses, holiday clubs, career days and even open days and clubs for teachers.

A new website has been launched to coincide with the opening of the Academy - where teachers and students can find out more information about what animal courses the Park provides and how teachers can claim two free preview tickets, to familiarise themselves with the attraction before taking their school group.

The Safari Academy will be located near the Park's Hippo Lakes.

For more information, visit safariacademy.co.uk.

Alternatively, you can contact the learning team on 01299 404888 or email learning@wmsp.co.uk.